Electromyography measurement of workers at the second lining pounding process for hanging scrolls

Abstract

Hanging scrolls are a traditional Japanese form of binding and displaying artwork or calligraphy. The scrolls are rolled up from the bottom up and stored in a box, or hung on a wall for display. It is important for the scroll to be able to roll up smoothly without causing any creases when on display. Several layers of Japanese washi paper attached to the back of the scroll make these two functions possible. Wheat starch glue, a weak form of adhesive used to fortify the back, is combined with a technique called “pounding” with the use of a pounding brush, to promote adhesion. In this research, we attached an electromyograph on two subjects – an expert and non-expert binder – to study the movement of their muscles in 9 locations when pounding. Results of this study are expected to help contribute to the acquisition of the binding technique.